Welsh Politicians Reject Gibraltar Proposals For European Elections

by Jason Gorringe, Tax-News.com, London

17 January 2003

Speaking earlier this week, Plaid Cymru President, Ieuan Wyn Jones categorically rejected proposals that Gibraltar should become part of a Welsh constituency for the purposes of the next European elections.

The suggestion was put forward by Tory European Parliamentary Leader, Jonathon Evans in December. Mr Evans argued that: 'Like Gibraltar, we've got different constitutional arrangements from England in Wales - so that ought to make the people of Gibraltar feel more assured that their voice will be heard,' and called for support from the country's other political parties for his proposal.

However, according to Gibraltar's Iberia News service, this support has not been forthcoming.

'I am calling on the UK government to categorically rule out attaching Gibraltar to Wales for the 2004 European elections. Including Gibraltar with Wales would be manifestly absurd,' the Plaid Cymru chief observed, explaining that:

'Wales is a country which deserves representation in the European Parliament and the people of Wales should not be treated as second-class citizens.' He continued: The people of Gibraltar are proud to be British and in their alliance with the UK. Politically they would associate themselves with UK parties and UK-wide issues.'

Plaid Cymru Euro-MP, Jill Evans supported the party leader's comments, arguing that such an arrangement would not be in the best interests of either country:

'Currently there are five MEPs representing the whole of Wales. I can't see how we could possibly represent Gibraltar as well. It would not be satisfactory for the people of Gibraltar, either, who would still to a large extent be disenfranchised.'

The opposition to the plan appears to be cross-party, as demonstrated by Labour Euro-MP Eluned Morgan, who, in a recent letter to the Electoral Commission, urged the British and European authorities not to interfere with Wales' 'national integrity'.

'The south-west of England would make a lot more sense as a region to join Gibraltar with, not only because it is geographically the closest, but because of strong historical maritime links,' she observed.

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